What consists of glands controlling many of the body's activities by producing hormones?

The endocrine system is composed of glands that play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes through the secretion of hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to target organs and tissues, where they elicit specific responses to maintain homeostasis, influence growth and development, regulate metabolism, and control various functions such as mood, sleep, and reproduction.

Glands within the endocrine system, such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and pancreas, each have distinct roles in hormone production. For instance, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, while the adrenal glands secrete hormones like adrenaline that help manage stress responses. This intricate system of hormone signaling ensures that the body can respond effectively to changes in its internal and external environments, highlighting the importance of the endocrine system in overall health and function.